By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – An exhilarating weekend of football in the Ingwenyama Cup last 32 saw a total of 53 goals scored during open play, with three players netting hat-tricks.
The standout players currently leading the race for the coveted E10,000 top scorer award are Musa Dlamini from Rangers, Herve Iri from Moneni Pirates, and Simiso Dlamini from Nkwene Sundowns.
Biggest Winners
Rangers delivered the most dominant performance of the round, thrashing All Nations 7-0 in the Shiselweni derby on Saturday. Moneni Pirates also impressed with a 6-0 victory over Pigg’s Peak Black Swallows, while Nkwene Sundowns stunned Sidvwashini United with a 6-2 win.
Penalty Drama
Three matches had to be decided by penalty shootouts after regular time ended in a draw. Illovo triumphed 4-1 over Magwanyana, Madlenya edged out Emajukujuku 7-4, and Rangers claimed a 3-0 win against Malanti Chiefs from the spot.
Premier League Upsets
The tournament saw some shocking exits for top-tier teams. Mbabane Highlanders suffered a 2-1 defeat to Lozitha Spurs, and Nsingizini Hotspurs were eliminated following a 2-1 loss to Red Rhinos.
Defending Champions Advance
Defending champions Green Mamba secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Masundvwini Royal Swallows. Meanwhile, Royal Leopard displayed their strength with a commanding 4-0 win against Ubombo Flyers.
Results Recap:
- L. Killers 1-2 M. Swallows
- L. Spurs 2-1 M. Highlanders
- N. Comrades 0-2 Y. Buffaloes
- M.R. Swallows 0-1 Green Mamba
- U. Flyers 0-4 R. Leopard
- Magwanyana 1-1 Illovo (Illovo won 4-1 on penalties)
- Red Rhinos 2-1 N. Hotspurs
- N. Sundowns 6-2 Sidvwashini
- All Nations 0-7 Rangers
- T. Celtics 1-3 Ezulwini
- Emajukujuku 2-2 Madlenya (Madlenya won 7-4 on penalties)
- Amawele 1-3 M. Sea Birds
- PP. Rangers 0-0 Malanti Chiefs (PP. Rangers won 3-0 on penalties)
- PP. B Swallows 0-6 Moneni Pirates
- CK Survivors 1-0 D. Sundowns
The excitement of the tournament continues to captivate fans, with plenty more thrilling moments expected as the competition progresses.
